Bearded Brutalises Cops During Brothel Raid
Vasile Alexandru, 30, from Pelly Road, Newham, E13, has been slammed with seven years behind bars after a violent showdown with police during a brothel raid linked to modern slavery.
Violence Erupts During Early Morning Raid
On 20 May, Met officers from the Modern Slavery and Child Exploitation unit targeted Alexandru’s home, suspected of operating as a brothel and exploiting victims. At about 6:15am, as officers tried to break in, they heard loud banging inside.
An officer in his 40s struck the door repeatedly with an enforcer tool, which became stuck. When he tried to pull it free, glass from the door window shattered, sending shards flying into his face, chest, arms, and hands. Suddenly, the blade of an axe was swung through the broken glass.
A second officer, in his 30s, was cut by glass and suffered a puncture wound to his wrist. Both saw a bearded man through the shattered window before police finally entered.
Human Trafficking Suspicions and Arrest
Inside, three women confirmed they were sex workers but insisted they were there by choice. Alexandru was caught nearby minutes later and arrested on suspicion of attempted grievous bodily harm and controlling prostitution.
Detective Inspector Nigel Penny said: “This case highlights the levels of violence that police officers and other emergency workers can face whilst in the execution of their duty.”
“The message is clear: violence against those who protect our communities will not be tolerated. The substantial custodial sentence passed today reflects the severity of the attack and sends a strong warning.”
Justice has been served for the brave officers who risked their lives to protect victims from exploitation.
